Self Confidence

Ok, well I'm doing my english GCSE and I have to do some of it by speaking/ acting etc in front of the class. The problem is, I'm absolutely terrified. Before Ive always managed to get out of doing anything like that, but I don't have a choice now. I get so nervous I'm physically sick. Does anyone know how I can conquer this? It's starting to really get me down.

I had to do that too, but I do drama so it wasn't a struggle. I suggest learning it really well, do you have to do it alone or in a group? And remember everyone else has to do it too, so if they laugh at you/make you feel uncomfortable, do it right back when it's their turn! and if you have to volunteer go first, it makes things easier, you can then just relax.

Just be yourself and know your material. There will always be critics, hecklers and an audience. Sometimes we are our own critic, heckler and audience. Whatever response you get is someone showing their nature. One actor said to think of them all being naked. Some actors like to address the hecklers and ask them if they think they could do a better job. To share one's feeling in front of the audience has been a trait of some comedians. Try to be one with your material like a good salesman. To know yourself is to partially to know others.

^^Maybe that helps some.
I've never had to do much talking in front of people.. but I have had to dance. Anyway, when I get on the stage I have a few options.
I can dance for myself, for the entire public, for a select group of the public, for the dancers on stage, for one single dancer on stage or for one single person in the audience. I can also lock everyone else out and just dance.. simply to dance without "rhyme or reason" which is what I sometimes do, and it turns out emotionless and boring :-(
So best to do any talking either for yourself, or just stare directly at ONE person, like the teacher or someone in the front row.
And RELAX, why does this mean so much? What, really, can people do?

//T.L.//

p.s. But I know, it's incredibly hard! Good luck :-)

ok, well... think to yourself, " I'm doing this for me. I want people to listen up. I want to show people what I'm made of :)"

or if that doesnt work, try thinking of it like this, "I'm doing this for (insert dearest person to you)!!"

Goodness Im in your same boat I struggle a fair bit with verbal communication so come on with the tips guys - I could do with some myself!

hehe... well, i love answering questions in front of the class, but i hate memorizing something lol... cuz i dont practice...

well, if it helps, imagine the person you're talking to is your best friend :)